Program Overview

Introduction to the Professional Doctorate in Philanthropic Leadership

The Professional Doctorate in Philanthropic Leadership (PhilD) is a groundbreaking program designed for senior leaders in the philanthropic, government, and private sectors. As the world's first school dedicated to the study and teaching of philanthropy, Indiana University's Lilly Family School of Philanthropy offers this innovative degree to help solve global society's most pressing problems through philanthropy, nonprofits, and cross-sectoral initiatives.

Program Overview

The PhilD program is tailored for practicing professionals who have already obtained a master's-level or other graduate degree and wish to explore real-world solutions for current challenges through philanthropic and nonprofit solutions. This degree is distinct from a traditional Ph.D., which typically prepares graduates for academic positions. Instead, the PhilD focuses on applying new and existing research, education, and real-world practice to produce actionable insights that advance the practice of philanthropy and deliver social impact.

Curriculum and Structure

The PhilD curriculum is designed for working professionals, combining their experience with sophisticated coursework that addresses the nexus of philanthropy, leadership, and applied research inquiry. The program consists of asynchronous, cohort-based, sequential six- to eight-week sessions with set coursework, taken year-round for two years, followed by a third year for developing, writing, and presenting a final applied project. This project translates research into actionable strategies to solve real, complex problems for an organization or aspect of the sector, rather than a traditional dissertation.

Admission Requirements

To be eligible for the PhilD program, applicants must meet the following prerequisites:

• A bachelor's degree is required, along with a completed graduate degree in any field.
• International applicants must have their transcripts evaluated by either WES (World Education Services) or ECE (Educational Credential Evaluators).
• At least five years of demonstrated leadership experience.
• A commitment to advancing social good, as evidenced by professional or personal endeavors.
• International applicants must also demonstrate English proficiency with a passing score from the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) for admission into IU Indianapolis graduate and professional programs.
• No GRE or other graduate entrance exam is required, although applicants may opt to submit scores as desired.

Application Requirements

Applications for the PhilD program include:

• Transcripts from each college/university attended.
• Resume/CV.
• Three letters of reference addressing both leadership acumen and potential academic success in the PhilD.
• Personal statement.
• Applied Research Project Proposal: A proposal for a major applied research project applying existing research, scholarship, and data for actionable insights that advance the practice of philanthropy and nonprofits.

Tuition and Funding

Applicants should consider the intensity and financial costs of the program prior to applying. The university offers a cost calculator to plan finances. Additionally, there are several funding opportunities available for professional doctorate candidates.

Program Details

• The 2026 cohort will be capped at no more than 25 students, matriculating in August 2026 and completing their degree in August 2029.
• There are three required residencies in the PhilD program, one per year, with the first residency in August 2026.
• Optional synchronous supplemental online sessions will be offered throughout the curriculum.
• The program is led by Cindy M. Lott, Clinical Professor and PHILD Program Director.

Conclusion

The Professional Doctorate in Philanthropic Leadership at Indiana University's Lilly Family School of Philanthropy is a unique opportunity for senior leaders to advance their careers and contribute to solving global challenges through philanthropy and nonprofit initiatives. With its innovative curriculum, experienced faculty, and focus on applied research, the PhilD program is an excellent fit for those seeking to make a meaningful impact in the philanthropic sector.